Holme Wood
Peaceful mixed woodland on the south-west shore of Loweswater, known for red squirrels, deer, accessible lakeshore paths, a secluded stone bothy, woodland viewpoints and hidden Holme Force waterfall.
About Holme Wood
Holme Wood runs down the south-western side of Loweswater and is one of the most peaceful woodland walks in the Western Lake District. The mixed woodland contains alder, oak, lime, chestnut, ash and sycamore, with paths linking the fellside to the lakeshore.
The easiest approach is from Maggie's Bridge. A broad stone track crosses the fields past Watergate Farm before entering the wood and reaching Loweswater. The Lake District National Park Authority has upgraded this principal route as part of its Miles Without Stiles network and states that the main route through the wood is now fully accessible for wheelchair users.
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At the lakeshore, the path passes a small stone bothy and continues beside the water. A newer optional woodland extension climbs to an official viewpoint and picnic bench, but this branch is considerably steeper, reaching a gradient of around 1 in 7, so it should not be confused with the easier main route.
Holme Wood is also a strong wildlife location. The National Trust highlights the woodland as habitat for red squirrels and deer, while birds around Loweswater include great crested grebes, tufted ducks and cormorants. Visitors should remain on established paths where possible and keep dogs under close control around wildlife and livestock.
A short detour within the woodland leads to Holme Force, a secluded waterfall on Holme Beck. The National Trust describes it as one of the least-known waterfalls in the Buttermere Valley, partly because it is not visible from the main lakeside path.
There are no public toilets or café facilities within Holme Wood. Maggie's Bridge has only very limited parking, and there is no direct public bus to the route start. The nearby Kirkstile Inn provides food and drink for customers.
The woodland and surrounding Loweswater landscape are cared for as part of the wider Buttermere Valley. Tree management has included work responding to Phytophthora ramorum, with affected trees removed and woodland restoration intended to improve long-term resilience.
Our local note
One of the best quiet low-level walks in the Western Lakes, especially because a genuinely accessible lakeshore route reaches woodland, wildlife and Loweswater views without needing a fell climb.
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